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December 21, 2012

Want to Intensify Your Practice?

Exciting news for those of you interested in intensive
practice!

For two decades, people have been asking me if there is a
place to do a really long retreat using Basic Mindfulness techniques.

Those of you who have done extended retreats appreciate that
one week of unbroken practice is incomparably more impactful than one day, and
one month is incomparably more impactful than one week. So imagine the
life-changing effects that you would likely experience as the result of nine
months of Basic Mindfulness practice offered at an intensity level comparable
to Asian monastic training!

Although I have run a few one-month programs, my schedule
has not allowed for me to organize more extended, monastic-style intensive
training. It gives a lot of very pleasant “Feel In” to be able to tell you all
that plans are underway to create the world’s first Basic Mindfulness monastery
here in Burlington, Vermont. The prime mover for this project is my colleague Soryu
Forall.

To be able to pull it off, we need two things:

People who wish to utilize the program; and

Enough funding to support the program.

So spread the word! For more details, see the message and
links below.

The format will follow the Asian monastic systems in which
Shinzen Young and Soryu Forall were ordained, with modern-day improvements that
integrate science and leadership training with these contemplative traditions.
The nine-month program will be as rigorous on a daily basis as a typical
Shinzen retreat (if you were to attend every sit at the Shinzen retreat). One
week per month it will be more demanding, like a monthly “sesshin.” We will
happily make accommodations for those with disabilities or similar needs.

The RMTC will be located in Burlington, Vermont. We are hoping to begin as early as July
2013, (although the start date is dependent upon securing funding).
Soryu Forall will lead the training, with guest appearances by Shinzen Young.

This RMTC may be a real first in world history. It’s an
incredible opportunity to develop the next generation of deeply committed
modern mindfulness teachers by integrating deep practice with science and
leadership skills. We look forward to making history with your support!